Scott Air Free 16 £85 Sleek day pack with a section for safety kit and a handy, stowable pouch for attaching a helmet. Scott’s cross-carry system for skis cleverly links through the pack for easy, secure tightening. scott-sports.com

Ortovox Free rider 26 £135 Seriously off-piste focused with cunning innovations such as a whistle on the chest strap and a bright inside so stuff is easy to find. The removable back protector can be used alone. ortovox.com

Unisex

Gregory Targhee 18£79 From a brand that prides itself on perfect pack fit for every back the low­profile Targhee 18 is fully tricked out to carry safety kit and skis or board. Great new spot-me-in-the-trees colour too. gregorypacks.com

Mammut Nirvana Pro 25£120 A U-shaped frame and dense back padding make this sturdy tourer extra comfy to wear with skis or snowboard attached. Easy, full-zip access to main pocket even with board on board. mammut.ch

Arva Protector25 £105 The fit is designed to be close and comfortable, and as the name implies there’s in­built back protection. Tidy exterior thanks to ski and snowboard carry systems that tuck away. arva-equiptment.com

Salomon Quest 30 £100 Amply sized for touring with clean lines that hide an array of dedicated pockets and carry straps. Front opening from top or bottom and hefty back­panel channels to keep air circulating. salomon.com

The North Face Patrol 24 £105 Extra tough fabric with added abrasion zones means the Patrol should have your back for a good few years. Easy back panel access, secure tuck-away ski carry and a place for every essential. thenorthface.co.uk

Osprey Kode ABS 22+10£120 Full-featured new backcountry model that’s compatible with the ABS Vario system of airbags – buy separately and zip on the back. Abrasion resistant, and expandable thanks to side zips. ospreypacks.com